Troops Repel Bandit Infiltration in Niger State

By Zainab Bakare

Troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Babana in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State has successfully repelled an attempted infiltration by armed bandits on Thursday, neutralising two assailants and recovering a cache of weapons and ammunition.

According to a statement from the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 22 Armoured Brigade, Ilorin, Captain Stephen Nwankwo, the incident occurred at approximately 2:50 a.m. when vigilant troops engaged the bandits attempting to enter the Babana axis. The soldiers overpowered the attackers with superior firepower, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

In a follow-up operation along the bandits’ withdrawal route, troops neutralised two of the fleeing criminals on the outskirts of Babana. Recovered items from the operation include one AK-47 rifle, four loaded AK-47 magazines, 60 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 323 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammunition, and a mobile phone.

During the engagement, one officer and one soldier sustained gunshot wounds to their legs. Both are currently receiving medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

The remains of the neutralised bandits have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and necessary procedures.

Commending the troops for their bravery, the Commander of 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, praised their vigilance, resilience, and commitment to duty.

He reiterated the Brigade’s resolve to intensify operations and utilize all legitimate means to eliminate criminal threats and ensure the safety of communities within the joint operations area.